Compromise on Sikh Headwear In French Schools

A controversial French law enacted last year that banned conspicuous religious symbols and attire in public schools has posed problems for Sikh students, as well as others. Now, however, there appears to be some compromise on the part of the French government. The Panthic Weekly reported yesterday that lobbying by the Sikh community in France and around the European Union, as well as behind-the-scenes pressure by the government of India, has led to permission for Sikh students to wear "patkas"-- which are headscarfs or under-turbans. The Sikh community in France hopes this is a first step toward allowing students to wear the dastar (turban).